Netanyahu Vows to Eliminate Hamas Amid U.S. Ceasefire Push

Before departing, Netanyahu told reporters he would discuss "victory over Hamas," countering Iran, and freeing all hostages when he meets President Donald Trump on February 3, 2025. Photo: AFP
Before departing, Netanyahu told reporters he would discuss "victory over Hamas," countering Iran, and freeing all hostages when he meets President Donald Trump on February 3, 2025. Photo: AFP

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday vowed to eliminate Hamas, marking his first public statement since U.S. President Donald Trump announced a proposed 60-day ceasefire plan.

“There will be no Hamas. There will be no Hamastan. We will not return to that — it’s over,” Netanyahu said during a meeting.

President Trump confirmed on Tuesday that Israel had agreed to the terms of the proposed truce. He is expected to meet with Netanyahu at the White House on Monday.

The ceasefire proposal, described by Trump as a “final offer,” includes a 60-day pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Trump urged Hamas to accept the deal to avoid further escalation.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said U.S. representatives held a “long and productive” meeting with Israeli officials and that Israel had agreed to the terms. The plan is being delivered to Hamas by mediators from Qatar and Egypt.

“I hope, for the good of the Middle East, that Hamas accepts this deal,” Trump wrote. “Because the situation will not get better — it will get worse.”

Trump also expressed optimism earlier on Tuesday that a ceasefire-for-hostages agreement could be reached as early as next week.